ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contractual Tactical Data Link Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Curtiss-Wright

Tactical Data Link Specialist

Tewksbury, MA · On-site

$83K - $106K/yr

Tactical Data Link Specialist Here in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, we are looking for a Tactical Data Link Specialist to join us in our Software team. With training provided by our subject matter ...

New

Canvas

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL · On-site

$106K - $127K/yr

Key Responsibilities * Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF frontends) within HITL simulation environments. * Integrate hardware with ...

Canvas

Tactical Data Link Engineer

Niceville, FL · On-site

$106K - $127K/yr

Operate and monitor real tactical hardware (data link radios, GPS/INS units, RF front-ends) within HITL simulation environments. * Integrate hardware with Live-Virtual-Constructive (LVC ...

Astrion

Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior

FL · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Overview Tactical Data Link Test Engineer - Senior LOCATION: Eglin AFB, FL JOB STATUS: Full-time CLEARANCE: Secret CERTIFICATION: N/A TRAVEL: 35% CONUS / OCONUS Astrion has an exciting opportunity ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All Jobsfreelance JobsContractual Tactical Data Link Jobs

Contractual Tactical Data Link information

See salary details

$34K

$70.8K

$135.5K

How much do contractual tactical data link jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for contractual tactical data link in the United States is $70,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $81,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Contractual Tactical Data Link specialist?

A Contractual Tactical Data Link specialist is a professional who manages, implements, and maintains tactical data link systems—such as Link 16 or Link 11—on a contractual basis, often for military or defense organizations. Their work ensures secure and efficient communication between different military platforms, such as ships, aircraft, and ground units. These specialists are typically responsible for integrating, troubleshooting, and optimizing data link networks, as well as training personnel on their operation. Contractual roles mean they are hired for specific projects or time periods rather than as permanent staff. They play a crucial role in enabling real-time information sharing and situational awareness on the battlefield.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contractual Tactical Data Link specialist?

To thrive as a Contractual Tactical Data Link Specialist, you need a strong foundation in military communications, data link protocols (such as Link 16), and relevant security clearances, typically supported by technical or military training. Familiarity with tactical data link systems, network management tools, and certification in cybersecurity or defense communication systems is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure secure, reliable, and accurate information exchange essential for mission-critical operations and joint-force coordination.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in Contractual Tactical Data Link roles, and how can they overcome them?

Professionals in Contractual Tactical Data Link roles often face challenges such as coordinating between multiple military branches, ensuring secure and reliable data transmission, and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and protocols. Overcoming these hurdles requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to stay updated through ongoing training. Regular collaboration with engineers, operators, and program managers is essential for troubleshooting issues and maintaining system interoperability.

What is the difference between Contractual Tactical Data Link vs Tactical Data Analyst?

AspectContractual Tactical Data LinkTactical Data Analyst
CredentialsSecurity clearance, technical certificationsData analysis certifications, military or defense experience
Work EnvironmentMilitary, defense contractors, secure facilitiesMilitary operations centers, defense agencies, field environments
Employer & IndustryDefense agencies, military contractorsMilitary units, defense industry, government agencies

Contractual Tactical Data Link specialists focus on managing secure communication systems for military operations, ensuring data transfer between platforms. Tactical Data Analysts interpret and analyze data to support decision-making in combat scenarios. While both roles serve the defense sector, the former emphasizes system management, and the latter emphasizes data analysis.

More about Contractual Tactical Data Link jobs

What cities are hiring for Contractual Tactical Data Link jobs?

Cities with the most Contractual Tactical Data Link job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Tactical Data Link jobs?

The most popular types of Tactical Data Link jobs are:

What states have the most Contractual Tactical Data Link jobs?

States with the most job openings for Contractual Tactical Data Link jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Contractual Tactical Data Link jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Contractual Tactical Data Link jobs are:

Contractual Tactical Data Link jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contractual Tactical Data Link job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,839 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Tactical Data Link Specialist

Curtiss-Wright

Tewksbury, MA

$83K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

99th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Tactical Data Link Specialist
Here in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, we are looking for a Tactical Data Link Specialist to join us in our Software team. With training provided by our subject matter experts, you will become responsible for the development and execution of detailed, requirements-based software (integration) tests on our Tactical Communications Manager software. Following our training plan, you will have the ability to conduct complex regression tests for advanced, Department of Defense (DoD) tactical communication data link systems.
Your military experience working directly with tactical data link products is invaluable to us in our mission to ensure warfighters in the air and on the ground can now exchange real-time tactical information and share a common operating picture for improved operational coordination, situation awareness and mission effectiveness. We can provide you with the training and skills you need to build a successful career outside of the military whilst continuing to support our warfighters.
Location: Tewksbury, MA
Salary Range: $ 83,800 - 106,000 per year plus bonus
Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Massachusetts. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.
Benefits
We Take Care of Our People
Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase Plan I Inclusive & Supportive Culture *
Your Challenge:
  • Analyze detailed software requirements and design documents and develop top level Test Plan/Approach documentation for qualification of new software features/components
  • Based on detailed requirements and design documents and test plan, develops detailed system state and expected system output as test criteria
  • Develop cross reference matrix and maintain traceability of test procedures steps to the specified requirement; Attends and conducts peer reviews for test plan documents and formal test procedures
  • Works independently during qualification cycles by closing assigned problem reports, identifying and reporting new problems, conduction formal qualification, and running assigned regression tests
  • Applies complex test tools such as the PASS 3200, Wireshark, AltaView, CoPilot as required to support testing; reviews TCG requirements, design, acceptance test plan, and acceptance test procedure documents
  • Participates in the development and review of TCG's Engineering documentation Assists with resolution of system issues and problems reported by TCG's customers
  • Assists with duplication and test of Tech Support issues and System Trouble Reports (STRs); may participate in the design (based on customer input) and fabrication of Terminal Housing Cases
  • Must be able to perform function under minimal supervision/ direction
  • Other duties as assigned

What You Bring:
  • Military tactical data link system experience
  • 4-6 years' experience with military data links/ especially Link 16, Link 11, Link 22
  • Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to focus on and complete multiple tasks with attention to detail and organization
  • Balanced system-level focus along with in-depth analytical ability
  • Must be an effective communicator and a strong collaborator
  • U.S. Citizen (for clearance)
  • BSCS or related education

Who We Are
Our Values
Environmental, Social and Governance
Join the WRIGHT Team!
Tactical Communications Group (TCG) is a world-class leader in delivering Tactical Data Link (TDL) network solutions that allow military operating and training units, government testing organizations and prime defense contractors to quickly achieve better connectivity and capability at the tactical edge. By creating cost effective, integrated tactical communications solutions, warfighters in the air and on the ground can now exchange real-time tactical information and share a common operating picture for improved operational coordination, situation awareness and mission effectiveness.
#LI-YH1
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.
Compliance Statement
This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.
Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition.
For US Applicants: EEO is The Law - click here for more information.
If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.

What Curtiss-Wright employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Curtiss-Wright logo

About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Curtiss-Wright Jobs

Apply